The same number pops up on your phone every day. You know who it is, but you don’t want to answer it. It’s a debt collector wanting you to pay off a debt you owe Can't sleep?
It seems easier to ignore the calls, but it’s really worse for you. It only delays the inevitable.
It’s best to get information straight from the source, so Cedars Business Services, a reputable collection agency based in California, wants to help you understand how the process works and what your options are as a consumer.
The first step sounds simple, but it’s usually the hardest part. Just answer the phone. Any agent that works for a legitimate agency like Cedars will be friendly and accommodating
There’s no reason to feel nervous talking to them. Not answering could eventually lead to your credit score being dinged and hurting you for years.
You have the right to ask for information about the account you’re being asked to pay. They can tell you the creditor, the product/service, amount owed, etc.
This is important information to have in case any details they have to validate the account are inaccurate.
Often the amount a debtor owes is more than they can pay at that exact moment. Ask what your payment options are. Some agencies (like Cedars Business Services) have an online portal where you can set up a payment schedule and amount to pay yourself.
There are also times the creditor is willing to offer a discount if you pay it off at once. That discount can sometimes be fairly significant and may be worth it to you.
. It’s also likely that you’ll be given a little time to get your finances in order and determine where to fit that payment in your budget.